Photo from Jaja Santiago’s Instagram
MANILA, Philippines — Call her Sachi Minowa from now on as Jaja Santiago officially obtained her Japanese citizenship.
Santiago announced on Saturday that she had completed her journey of becoming a Japanese after a lot of sacrifices and a challenging process.
“Changing one’s nationality is not an easy decision. It requires many sacrifices to achieve your dream. There are people who will support you, but there are also those who may not understand your decision,” Santiago wrote on Instagram. “However, this is for my dream, because we are not getting any younger, and we don’t know how long we’ll be in this field. The only thing I know is that I will do everything for my family, my dream, and for the people who support me and believe in the talent that God has given me.”
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“The entire process has not been easy. But first and foremost, I am grateful to God for giving me the sign, the blessing, and the opportunity to be in the situation in my life that I am in now,” she added.
The 6-foot-5 middle blocker thanked her husband and Japanese coach Taka Minowa, whom she married two years ago, as well as her family for supporting her in her dream.
“To my husband and our entire family, who have not failed to support me, even though it has been difficult and there have been many jobs. They have sacrificed a lot just for me to achieve this dream of mine,” she said.
Photo from Jaja Santiago’s Instagram
The longtime Japan V.League player also expressed her gratitude to Chery Tiggo, the Philippine National Volleyball Federation led by president Tats Suzara, former squad Ageo Medics, and her current team JT Marvelous as well as her Japanese language school for helping her pass the exam.
“The level of adjustment and perseverance they have shown towards me, despite my busy schedule, is amazing,” said the former National University star, who last played for Chery Tiggo in 2021 with a PVL bubble championship run. “And to all the people who have supported and continue to support me, thank you very much. All of you are part of my journey, and I fully appreciate all the love and support.“
READ: Jaja Santiago says Japanese citizenship bid ‘still in process’
Now that she officially obtained her Japanese citizenship, Santiago, who last played for the national team in the 2022 Southeast Asian Games, said she will always be a Filipino.
“Now that I have already obtained my Japanese citizenship, in my heart, blood, mind, and soul, I am always a Filipina who was born in the Philippines. And I will not forget that. My name is Alyja Daphne Santiago, now Minowa Sachi. I’m looking forward to your continued support. Thank you,” Santiago said.
Santiago will play for JT Marvelous for the second straight year and her seventh SV.League season.